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Ollei
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Ollei
8.1
Trendy Korean comfort on Polk with a broad menu spanning soups, rice bowls, and grills. It’s a reliable neighborhood pick for casual dinners and small groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Soft tofu soup (soondubu), BBQ short ribs (galbi), Kimchi fried rice
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A one-stop menu for classic Korean comfort favorites.
Who should go: Friends splitting soups and grilled plates
When to visit: Prime 6–8pm; later for easier walk-ins
What to order: Soondubu; galbi plate; kimchi fried rice
Insider tip: Add a fried egg to rice dishes for extra richness.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm; no valet or dedicated lot available.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine—most guests wear jeans or relaxed outfits.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during peak dinner hours but still workable for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options like bibimbap with vegetables, tofu stews, and pancakes.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 dishes can be modified (tofu stews, veggie sides) if you ask.
Gluten-free options: Some naturally gluten-free soups and rice dishes available, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a casual but lively dinner—shareable dishes make for easy conversation without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, though expect to wait up to 45 minutes on weekend evenings. Walk-ins are easier after 8:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families come here often. High chairs are available, and mild dishes like fried rice or soups work well for kids.
Best For
Better for: Ollei offers a broader menu of Korean comfort dishes than smaller izakaya-style spots nearby, making it strong for groups with mixed tastes.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a quiet or upscale experience, consider a more refined Korean tasting-menu spot instead.
Ollei
7.9
Comfort-leaning Korean kitchen on Polk serving until around 11pm. A reliable choice for casual groups looking for noodles, stews, and easy shareables near Russian Hill.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kimchi Pancake, Yukgaejang Ramen, Japchae
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Late-running comfort dishes on a busy Polk Street block.
Who should go: Casual diners near Russian Hill
When to visit: After 9pm for easier tables
What to order: Kimchi pancake, yukgaejang ramen, japchae
Insider tip: Kitchen can do extra-crispy pancake on request.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking on Polk and side streets; metered until 10pm and can be competitive on weekends.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and relaxed outfits are common.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz from groups but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak 8–9pm hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetarian-friendly small plates and noodles.
Vegan options: Limited—about 2–3 dishes can be adapted (check broth and sauce bases).
Gluten-free options: Some options like rice-based dishes, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic dates—laid-back, lively, and affordable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in, especially later in the evening. A short wait is possible on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? It skews adult and group-oriented, but older kids and teens who enjoy noodles and shareables will be comfortable. No dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: Late-night Korean comfort near Russian Hill—more consistent and reliable than smaller takeout-only spots.
Skip if: You want a polished date-night setting or full bar program; choose trendier Korean lounges instead.